Danica Patrick, an IndyCar legend turned F1 pundit, has chastised Lewis Hamilton after the Mercedes driver claimed that the skid blocks are not a performance-enhancing component of the car.
Last time out, the seven-time world champion finished second on the road in the United States Grand Prix but was disqualified after a post-race inspection revealed that both the No.44 car and Ferrari driver Charles Leclerc had exceeded the maximum wear on their skid blocks.
Two of the four cars checked were found to be in violation of the technical regulations, sparking a heated debate within the paddock, with Hamilton calling for either teams to be allowed to change their skid blocks on sprint weekends or the FIA to investigate more cars.
“The skid is not a performance element,” Hamilton told Sky Sports F1 ahead of the Mexican Grand Prix. Of course, if you have a flat surface, everyone will try to get their car as low as possible.
“However, some cars handle bumps better than others, and as you know, we’ve had a very stiff and bumpy car for the last two years.” However, it ultimately failed the regulation, and this needs to change.”
Patrick, on the other hand, disagreed with Hamilton’s remarks, claiming that the 38-year-old was attempting to ‘build a case’ against the FIA. In his interview, Leclerc, who was also disqualified due to his car’s illegality, seemed more willing to accept the ruling and move on.
“I think Charles probably handled it appropriately,” Patrick said in response to the pair’s remarks. “Because there’s nothing you can do to make a difference at this point.” You were ineligible for the race because you were illegal.
“It felt like Lewis was trying to build a case and save some face in it.” But, at the end of the day, he claims it makes no difference, but it does. That is why the rule exists, because lowering the car always makes it faster. It’s one of the most powerful tools for increasing the car’s grip, so I believe it makes a difference.
“Perhaps it had something to do with the weekend.” They couldn’t change the car because there was only one practice session and a lot of parc ferme, and maybe they gambled, maybe they didn’t know. I’m not sure if there were any.”
